MUSTANG: Karma Gurung, a farmer from Dhumba, Gharpajhong-5, Mustang, has become a shining example of how perseverance, planning, and dedication can turn challenges into success.
For the past 50 years, Gurung has been engaged in apple farming—a tradition passed down from his ancestors.
His family established the Chimle Apple Farm in Dhumba nearly six decades ago, pioneering collective apple farming in the area along with relatives and neighbors. At just 13, Gurung took on the responsibility of managing the farm after the death of his father.
Following his father’s passing, the original team of ten family members behind Chimle Agricultural Farm dispersed. Undeterred, young Gurung took control of the operation, determined to keep the legacy alive. Initially rooted in traditional methods, the farm has since been transformed under Gurung’s leadership.
Inspired by his father’s commitment, he introduced modern techniques and technology into apple cultivation while maintaining its traditional roots.
“When my father was farming apples, there were no roads, no electricity, and no modern tools—everything had to be done by hand,” Gurung said. “It’s much easier now, but back then, it was pure struggle.”
He recalled the early days when, due to a lack of transportation, many apples would either rot on the trees or be fed to livestock. At the time, even selling apples for Rs 2 per kilogram was difficult. “We used horses, mules, even helicopters to transport apples to market. Making a profit was nearly impossible,” he shared.
Now 61, Gurung remains as passionate and energetic as ever. Today, he is recognized as one of Mustang’s most successful apple farmers. Two years ago, he received a national award from then-President Bidya Devi Bhandari for his outstanding contributions to agriculture.
His journey has not been easy, but Gurung credits his father’s inspiration and his own tireless work ethic for his achievements. “Reaching this point feels like winning a war,” he said.
Until 2075 BS, Gurung relied solely on traditional farming methods. However, he has since embraced hybrid, high-density apple farming. Inspired by Agro Manang’s pilot program in Manang, he began transitioning part of his land to this modern technique.
Gurung currently cultivates apples on approximately 500 ropanis of land—300 ropanis of his own and the rest leased from relatives, friends, and institutions. Half of the land is still used for traditional farming, while the other half now employs high-density hybrid methods.
The Chimle Apple Farm provides permanent employment to 25 people and seasonal work to over 90 others. Beyond apples, Gurung’s farm also raises over 500 goats, 10 horses, nine Jersey cows, and supports beekeeping.
His annual turnover from apple farming now reaches between NPR 30 to 40 million, although he notes that expenses for labor and orchard maintenance are also significant.
Gurung also expressed concern over the effects of climate change in Mustang, noting that apples are now ripening earlier than before.
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